If you’re a fan of the action-packed, role-playing adventures found in Xenoblade, you’re in for a treat. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 20 books that capture the same essence of epic quests, intricate worlds, and unforgettable characters. Dive into these tales and let your imagination soar.
Books Similar to Xenoblade
1. Mistborn: The Final Empire
Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn: The Final Empire introduces a world where ash falls from the sky and mist dominates the night. The story follows Vin, a street urchin who discovers she has the power to manipulate metals. This book is highly recommended for its deep world-building and complex magic system.
2. The Way of Kings
Another masterpiece by Brandon Sanderson, The Way of Kings is the first book in the Stormlight Archive series. It features a richly detailed world and follows multiple characters, each with their own unique abilities and struggles. Fans of epic tales and intricate plots will find this book hard to put down.
3. The Name of the Wind
Patrick Rothfuss’s The Name of the Wind tells the story of Kvothe, a gifted young man who grows into a legendary figure. The novel is a masterclass in storytelling, blending magic, music, and mystery. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves a well-crafted narrative.
4. The Lies of Locke Lamora
Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora is a tale of heists and high adventure. It follows the exploits of Locke Lamora, a master thief in the city of Camorr. The book is praised for its witty dialogue and intricate plot twists, making it a thrilling read.
5. The Black Prism
In The Black Prism by Brent Weeks, the world is governed by a unique magic system based on light. The story centers on Gavin Guile, the most powerful person in the world, as he navigates political intrigue and personal dilemmas. This book is recommended for its innovative magic system and gripping storyline.
6. The Blade Itself
Joe Abercrombie’s The Blade Itself is the first book in The First Law trilogy. It features a cast of morally complex characters in a gritty, war-torn world. The novel is known for its dark humor and realistic portrayal of violence, making it a compelling read.
7. The Eye of the World
The Eye of the World by Robert Jordan is the first book in the Wheel of Time series. It follows a group of young friends who are thrust into a battle against dark forces. The book is celebrated for its detailed world-building and epic scope, perfect for fans of long, immersive series.
8. The Hobbit
J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit is a classic tale of adventure and discovery. It follows Bilbo Baggins as he embarks on a journey to reclaim a lost kingdom. The book’s timeless appeal and richly imagined world make it a must-read for any fantasy enthusiast.
9. The Way of Shadows
Brent Weeks’ The Way of Shadows is the first book in the Night Angel trilogy. It follows Azoth, a street rat who becomes an apprentice to a master assassin. The book is noted for its fast-paced action and complex characters, making it a thrilling read.
10. The Priory of the Orange Tree
Samantha Shannon’s The Priory of the Orange Tree is a standalone epic fantasy that features dragons, magic, and political intrigue. The story weaves together multiple perspectives and is praised for its strong female characters and intricate plot.
11. The Rage of Dragons
Evan Winter’s The Rage of Dragons is set in a world where one in every two thousand women can call down dragons, and one in every hundred men is able to magically transform into a stronger, faster, more deadly warrior. The book is renowned for its intense action scenes and compelling character development.
12. The Bone Ships
RJ Barker’s The Bone Ships is a nautical fantasy that follows the crew of a ship made from the bones of ancient dragons. The book is lauded for its unique setting and richly detailed world, making it a standout in the genre.
13. The Wolf of the North
Duncan M. Hamilton’s The Wolf of the North is a coming-of-age tale set in a Viking-inspired world. The story follows a young warrior named Wulfric as he rises to become a legendary figure. The book is praised for its engaging characters and fast-paced plot.
14. The Broken Empire Trilogy
Mark Lawrence’s The Broken Empire Trilogy begins with Prince of Thorns, a dark and gritty tale of revenge and ambition. The series is known for its morally ambiguous characters and brutal, unforgiving world, making it a gripping read.
15. The Red Knight
Miles Cameron’s The Red Knight is the first book in The Traitor Son Cycle. It follows a mercenary company as they defend a fortress from an onslaught of mythical creatures. The book is recommended for its detailed combat scenes and complex characters.
16. The Emperor’s Blades
Brian Staveley’s The Emperor’s Blades is the first book in the Chronicle of the Unhewn Throne series. It follows the children of a murdered emperor as they uncover dark secrets and face deadly enemies. The book is noted for its intricate plot and well-developed characters.
17. The Gutter Prayer
Gareth Hanrahan’s The Gutter Prayer is a dark and imaginative tale set in a city filled with gods, monsters, and magic. The story follows three thieves as they uncover a conspiracy that could destroy their world. The book is praised for its unique setting and compelling narrative.
18. The Poppy War
R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War is a grimdark military fantasy inspired by Chinese history. The story follows Rin, a war orphan who rises to power through sheer determination and magical prowess. The book is known for its brutal depiction of war and complex characters.
19. The Shadow of What Was Lost
James Islington’s The Shadow of What Was Lost is the first book in The Licanius Trilogy. It follows a young man named Davian as he discovers his magical abilities and uncovers ancient secrets. The book is recommended for its intricate plot and rich world-building.
20. The Ruin of Kings
Jenn Lyons’ The Ruin of Kings is a tale of prophecy, magic, and destiny. It follows Kihrin, a young man who discovers he is at the center of an ancient prophecy. The book is praised for its complex narrative structure and richly developed characters.